8 Top Restaurant-Inspired Appetizers

Say goodbye to traditional chips and salsa and welcome these delectable appetizer recipes from some of the country's best historic homes and inns.

By: Kayla Kitts

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Tuna Tartare

When hosting an intimate gathering, intricate and involved appetizers are a perfect way to bring something special to the party and your guests. This sophisticated tuna tartare appetizer combines tuna, cucumber, avocado, watercress and red onion to create a tasty seafood dish with plenty of charm and visual appeal. Find the recipe here>>

Braised Pork Belly on Biscuits

Miniature sandwiches and finger foods are always a hit at parties. Add a sophisticated and unique twist to a typical sandwich by combining made-from-scratch biscuits with savory braised pork belly. Find the recipe here>>

Pimento Cheese Fritters

Bring a taste of Southern charm to your next gathering with a familiar pimento cheese appetizer. Traditionally eaten with sliced bread as a sandwich, this recipe features a modern twist with the accompaniment of chip-like fritters. Find the recipe here>>

Caviar and Potato Chips With Crème Fraiche

Caviar is known for its luxurious and ritzy reputation in the food world, but this rich dish can be easily dressed down, too. Skip the veggie tray and offer your guests caviar and potato chips with a crème fraiche dip as their party snack. And if you didn't like caviar before, you will now. Find the recipe here>>

Baby Arugula Salad With Vinaigrette

Spice up a plain arugula salad with a savory vinaigrette, toasted pistachios and sweet apple slices all situated in a cheese cylinder. This delicate dish is the perfect appetizer for an elegant dinner party and a sophisticated way to show off your culinary skills. Find the recipe here>>

Chocolate Truffles

You don't always have to save dessert for last. Homemade decadent chocolate truffles are an elegant appetizer guaranteed to satisfy everyone's sweet tooth. Biltmore Estate's winemaker suggests pairing this truffles recipe with Biltmore Estate® Blanc de Blancs or Pas de Deux sparkling wines. Find the recipe here>>

Oysters Rockefeller

This famous 19th-century dish will win over all your seafood-loving guests. The Jekyll Island Club Hotel shares its flavorful recipe for oysters Rockefeller — oysters topped with spinach, bacon, garlic, cheese and coordinating spices and then perfectly baked. Find the recipe here>>

Chicken Liver Paté

Chicken liver paté is easy to make and is a sweet alternative to other spreads. When paired with grilled bread or crackers, the sherry, honey and cinnamon flavored paté marinade provides just the right amount of sweet to complement the savory. Find the recipe here>>